If this is your first child then it's your last chance to enjoy time away with your partner, family and friends. So what do you and your bump need to know before you get on board?
1) If you're flying then you'll need to check with your doctor that you're safe to travel but the general advice is that most airlines are happy to have you on board until you are 36 weeks and 32 weeks for twins.
2) Adjust your seat belt under your bump and across your pelvis. If it's too small, tell the cabin crew. Seat belt extenders are usually kept on board.
3) Wear lightly layered, loose-fitting clothes that you can peel off if you get too hot, and make sure you wear comfortable shoes without straps as your feet may swell.
4) Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and snack on juicy fruits and vegetables which will nourish you and also contain plenty of water.
5) They may not be pretty but compression stockings can seriously help keep your ankles from swelling up and help reduce the danger of deep vein thrombosis.
6) Walk about in the cabin when you are able to help keep blood circulating and while sitting try out some simple exercises. Simply rotate your ankles, wiggle your toes and move heels up and down regularly. And if your feet are swollen after the flight keep them elevated to help drain the fluid.
Now ladies and gentlemen, sit back and enjoy your flight!
